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When should you apply?

Your completed FAFSA should be submitted as soon after January 1 as possible to receive financial aid for the next fall term. Some financial aid is on a first-come, first-serve basis. It is important you meet any state or college deadlines. Missing a deadline can cost you money.

College and University Deadlines
Most colleges and universities have priority deadlines. Your FAFSA must be filed on or before these dates to be considered for limited federal or institutional financial aid. Check with the college to determine their priority deadline. Many may be as early as February or March.

State of Iowa Deadline
July 1 is the application priority deadline for many scholarships and grants funded by the State of Iowa. Because your FAFSA serves as the standard application for State grants, your completed FAFSA must be received by the processing center no later than July 1. All properly completed forms received on or before July 1 will be given priority status for state-funded programs.

TIP: Meet deadlines for all awards, including those offered by the college or university and private sources. Many of these scholarships or grants may have an application in addition to the FAFSA and/or have a different deadline. If you aren't sure, ask! The college or university financial aid office or the Iowa College Student Aid Commission are good resources for information.